UFC Freedom 250.
Topuria suffered his first professional loss in a lightweight title fight in June when his corner stopped the contest after the fourth round. The former two-division champion said his injuries were so severe that continuing could have left him unable to compete.
Ilia Topuria Credits Aleksandre Topuria for Stopping Justin Gaethje Fight After Major Injuries at UFC Freedom 250
Speaking to One on One MMA, Topuria recalled that it was difficult for him to see and expressed his gratitude for his brother’s decision.
“I wouldn’t say, ‘Stop it,’ but I respect the decision my brother made in that moment. I would do the same. Because I didn’t see. I couldn’t open my eyes,” said Topuria.
He described that his eyes were bloodshot and felt as if there were thousands of crystals inside them. Topuria said he has fractures in his orbit, nose and foot.
“100 percent. If he hadn’t stopped the fight, I probably wouldn’t be able to fight again in my life,” he said. “I’m so grateful to my brother that he decided to stop me because I love what I do. I had a bad experience, but I have a lot more to do.”
Topuria said he is not yet cleared for contact training, but hopes to resume full training in January and return to competition in April, May or June 2027. He wants a rematch with Gaethje, although no matchup has been announced.
